There is a reason why AC Power Cables come in different sizes (Gauges). Certain types of equipment will draw more current than other equipment. Example: An amplifier rated for 1000 Watts per channel will draw way more current than a small Mixing Console. The AC power cable used for the amplifier will need to be a heavier gauge cable due to this higher current draw. Amplifiers usually utilize 14AWG or 12AWG power cable sizes (when in doubt, check the manufacturers user manual / specs). Small processors, mixers, and sound processors usually utilize 18AWG or 16AWG size power cables. Caution: If for some reason you do not use the proper size power cable, there will be a voltage drop, and this could end up melting the cable sheathing (jacket) due to the higher amounts of current flow. It’s always best practice to use the recommended size power cable.
How to Identify Hot, Neutral, Ground
If you ever need to deal with power cables used with Audio Equipment the color code is very straight forward. The “Hot” wire is Black, Neutral will be “White” and Ground will be “Green.” Never swap the colors!
Wire gauges are stamped on the cable jackets, some can be seen easily, some are hard to locate (see examples above). The gauge size refers to the diameter of each of the single wires inside the cable jacket. 3X16AWG means each of the “3” wires are 16AWG. The lower the gauge number, the thicker the cable will be.
Typical Extension Cables
